Using VA education benefits wisely: A guide to fraud prevention

Navigating the realm of education benefits can be challenging enough without the added concern of fraud. VA education benefits are an invaluable resource for Veterans and their families, aimed at empowering them through educational opportunities. However, like any other valuable asset, they can be susceptible to fraudulent activities. Here’s how you can protect yourself and ensure your education benefits are used appropriately.

Understanding VA education benefits

VA offers several education benefit programs and services, such as Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, Montgomery G.I. Bill, and Survivors’ and Dependents’ Education Assistance. To learn more visit VA.gov.

Common types of fraud

Fraud can take many forms, especially in the context of education benefits.

Job boards

Job Boards or advertisements targeting specific demographics may be misleading or fake and require personal information or money to get the job. You can find free, official information about federal jobs at USAJOBS.gov, FedsHiresVets.gov and CareerOneStop.org. Your State’s Department of Labor may have job listings, contacts for local job offices, and resources for counseling and referrals. 

Student loan scams

Educational institutions may promise immediate student loan forgiveness or debt cancellation to entice Veterans to enroll in classes. For most borrowers, loan forgiveness is only available through programs requiring many years of qualifying payments or other qualifying criteria. Here’s how to avoid scams.

Scholarship scams

Some institutions may “guarantee” Veterans a scholarship in exchange for a redemption/processing fee.  

Seminars

Veterans may be promised a scholarship and financial aid under the guise of high-pressure sales pitches where they feel pressured to pay immediately or risk losing the so-called “opportunity.”    

Steps can you take to protect yourself

VA wants to ensure Veterans are equipped with accurate information about the cost and quality of educational institutions and programs to make informed decisions about their education. 

• Choose G.I. Bill-approved schools.
• Use the G.I. Bill Comparison Tool. Compare the benefits you’ll receive at different schools.  
• Make sure VA has your correct contact and banking information. Keep your contact and payment information up to date. You can update direct deposit information online. You can also update contact or payment information through Ask VA.
• Protect your benefits by staying informed. One of the best ways to stay in the loop about your G.I. Bill benefits is through our official VA emails. If you’re not already receiving them, opt in today to start. If you’re a current subscriber, you can use the link to adjust your preferences to ensure you’re receiving information most relevant to you.
• If you ever have an issue with your school or training facility, you can submit feedback to VA via our G.I. Bill School Feedback Tool.
• Find schools that take part in the Yellow Ribbon Program. The program can help you pay for school costs not covered by the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill.   

Resources and support

Find out more about education benefits and qualifications at VA Education And Training Benefits | Veterans Affairs.

If you have any questions about the G.I. Bill and other VA education benefits, call the G.I. Bill Hotline 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-888-442-4551).

If a Veteran is missing a VA benefits payment, identifies a discrepancy in payments, or finds suspicious activity with their direct deposit account, they should contact VA immediately at 1-800-827-1000. Veterans who suspect they are victims of fraud can find resources to file a report to the appropriate agency by visiting www.vsafe.gov or calling 1-833-38V-SAFE.  

American Corporate Partners (ACP) offers free Mentoring Program that connects post-9/11 Veterans, active duty spouses and eligible military spouses (Protégés) with corporate professionals (Mentors) for customized mentorships. ACP is a national nonprofit organization that bridges the gap between the military and civilian sectors, connecting experienced professionals with Veterans and active duty spouses seeking successful civilian careers. Through a tailored one-on-one mentorship, as well as strategic networking opportunities and robust online resources, ACP combats underemployment and empowers individuals to achieve their full career potential.

The benefits provided through VA education programs are designed to support your journey and ensure you have the opportunities to succeed. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from fraud and make the most of these valuable resources. Remember to use authorized resources for information and to report any suspicious activities promptly. VA is here to help you safeguard your benefits and achieve your educational goals.